That time of year again! Where does the time go?
As we decorate the Christmas tree, fill the stockings and think about our Christmas meal, the last thing on our mind is usually "What to prepare that is healthy and full of goodness." Well, at the risk of sounding ba-hum-bug-ish, it is in fact very possible to maintain our health (and our waist line) over Christmas without actually putting much thought and effort into it.
Traditionally, Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without the turkey and stuffing, Christmas cakes or Christmas pudding, custard, gingerbread, lollies, seafood, salads and cold ham, mince pies and often Pavlova. Let's now take a closer look at these foods under the nutritionist's microscope:
Turkey
Turkey falls under the category of a high protein food. It is a white meat which has been shown to present with healthier outcomes than red meat. Turkey is considered a low glycemic index food which supports regulation of blood sugar levels. The healthiest and most tasty way of cooking turkey is by roasting it. Lemon juice, salt and pepper and perhaps some garlic can be rubbed on the outside of the Turkey and then under the skin for added flavour.
Roast vegetables alongside the Turkey!
Stuffing
Stuffing needn't be unhealthy and full of fat. Find a recipe that suits the waistline and wellbeing!
Seafood and Salads
Seafood has amazing health benefits.
Salad containing raw vegetables such as carrots, lettuce (the darker the green the better), tomatoes, avocadoes are definitely a must as an added side! They contain important vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Be careful with the dressing though. Try pouring equal quantities of balsamic vinegar and olive oil with a splash of lemon over the salad as a delicious, healthy alternative.
Christmas Pudding, Cakes and Custards
What would Christmas be without these dishes? As this is part of tradition, it is hard to go without. These can be made using healthier ingredients. The key is though, eat these in moderation.
Christmas is a time to be merry. It is family time. Traditionally this family time is spent interacting around Christmas meals. The answer to enjoying our time without bursting the seams is to fill up on the healthy alternatives first, then tuck into the sweets, but do this in moderation.
Originally published on Dec 20, 2011
